West India most affected by monsoon delay, experts worried for Vidarbha

New Delhi, July 7: Vidarbha's name crops up everytime there is a drought-like situation in the country. Considered the farmer-suicide capital of India, experts worry that the situation would be the same even this year.

Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh confirmed that the sub-normal monsoon will badly effect North India. He said,"Monsoon is delayed. Western India is expected to be worst affected and drought-like situation might prevail in some pockets."

The minister also said that a contingency plan will be drafted so that there is no shortage of drinking water and fodder in drought-prone areas like Vidarbha.

He further added,"Vidharbha region is drought-prone. We will think of all possible measures to help farmers so that they are not forced to commit suicides due to crop failure."

However, hopeful with the MeT department's predictions, the minister said,"If it improves, the loss in sowing of kharif crops will definitely be compensated."

He also assured that the agriculture ministry will soon move a cabinet note to diesel and seed subsidy if states declare drought in some areas.

On vegetable prices increasing due to monsoon delay, the minister said,"We have to improve the supply system though there is no shortage in onion and potato production in the country."